Lot: 73

England. 18th/19th century
Pair of figurative fireplace screens (dummy boards)

Painted oak. Opposite depictions of a man smoking a pipe and a woman peeling apples. 119 x 71 x 28 cm and 122 x 73 x 24 cm, respectively. These almost life-size, figurative screens, so-called "dummy boards," originated in the trompe l'oeil painting style popular in the Netherlands in the 17th century and remained popular until the 19th century. The figures typically depict servants, soldiers, children, or animals. During the 18th century, such figures were very fashionable, especially in aristocratic circles, especially in England and the Netherlands. These figures were often placed in corners or on staircases of houses, where they were intended primarily to surprise uninvited visitors during the homeowners' absence. In the summer months, they also served to conceal unused fireplaces. Provenance: Estate of the industrialist and Olympic dressage champion Gabriela Grillo.

Hammer Price: 3,200 €